The Flow of Spiritual Life: Embracing the Spirit’s Habits

Ezekiel 36:27 gives us a wonderful promise: “I will put My Spirit within you and cause you to walk in My statutes and to carefully observe My ordinances.” This verse paints a picture of a life immersed in God’s Spirit—a life where obedience flows naturally, much like the waters in Ezekiel's vision.

This spiritual life isn't about struggle or self-effort but about surrender and trust. As we yield to God, He leads us into rhythms of living that become natural extensions of His divine life within us. However, these rhythms often start with deliberate choices, repeated faithfully until they become habits infused with the Spirit’s power. Let’s explore additional insights from today's Days of Heaven devotional by A.B. Simpson.

The Role of Intentionality

At first, forming these habits may feel like a conscious effort. Whether it’s spending time in prayer, meditating on Scripture, or showing love to someone difficult to love, the initial steps require intention and persistence. But over time, as we faithfully take these steps in faith, the Holy Spirit transforms our actions into habits that flow effortlessly from our new nature in Christ.

From Duty to Delight

The beautiful truth of walking in the Spirit is that what begins as obedience eventually becomes joy. The Holy Spirit works within us, shaping our desires and inclinations so that we not only do what pleases God but also delight in doing so. The weight of duty transforms into the wings of delight, and our hearts overflow with the joy of living in step with Him.

Trusting the Current of Grace

The highest spiritual life is like the swimmer in Ezekiel’s vision, carried by the current of deep waters. Instead of struggling, the swimmer trusts the flow of the water. In the same way, as we trust God’s Spirit to work within us, we can let go of striving and rest in His power to carry us forward.

Let us remember that God has already placed His Spirit within us to accomplish this work. Our role is to trust, obey, and yield to His leading as He transforms our lives from the inside out.

A Prayer of Surrender

Lord, thank You for the promise of Your Spirit living within us. We yield ourselves to You today, trusting You to guide our steps and establish habits of grace and obedience in our lives. May what begins as faithfulness transform into joy, and may Your Spirit carry us deeper into the fullness of Your life. In Jesus’ name, amen.